Authorities in Spokane, Washington, arrested a 37-year-old man on Monday in connection with the Old Trails Fire, one of the wildfires that have devastated the region. The suspect, identified as Aaron F. Farinacci, faces a charge of first-degree arson.
Farinacci was taken into custody after a community member reported seeing a man behaving suspiciously near a grassy area, according to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. While initially released, detectives later identified Farinacci again using body camera footage and reports. Authorities stated that the fire's origin point matched the witness's observation and that Farinacci was found with matches and a lighter. His first court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday.
The Old Trails Fire, the largest of three blazes that erupted over the weekend, ignited northwest of downtown Spokane and spread across the Spokane River, consuming neighborhoods. In total, the fires have destroyed at least 700 buildings and forced approximately 67,000 people to evacuate. The cause of the other two fires remains undetermined.
Residents returning to their neighborhoods on Monday found their homes reduced to rubble, with only chimneys and charred debris remaining. The fires have burned approximately 12.5 square miles around Spokane. Fire officials reported that the fires were uncontained, with over 1,000 firefighters on the scene and plans to double that number in the coming days.
The Washington state congressional delegation has requested an expedited emergency declaration from President Donald Trump to assist with the recovery efforts. While nearly 300 reports of missing people were initially filed, authorities stated by Monday that all but 14 had been accounted for, likely due to communication issues following evacuations.
The Spokane-area fires are part of a larger pattern of intense wildfires across the Western United States, straining the resources of federal, state, and local agencies. Washington has experienced severe drought conditions and a diminished snowpack, contributing to the heightened fire risk. Officials have also warned the public against flying drones near the burned areas, as this can impede aerial firefighting operations.
Many residents have shared accounts of losing their homes and possessions, facing the daunting task of rebuilding or relocating. The fires have highlighted the vulnerability of communities in drought-stricken areas and the critical role of citizen awareness in aiding law enforcement.